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Stephen Spanich Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Spanich
Sponsored by Fitzgerald Funeral Service Southwood Colonial Chapel.
Jim Murphy
March 16, 2021
Sure feel fortunate to have grown up with you "Duck". Always special to me and unbelievable competitor.
How our Lord guided you to be leader and family man is sure something to behold. Love you Steve
Greg Judy
March 15, 2021
Steve Spanich was the administrator for 8 of the years that I taught at Isaac Newton Christian Academy in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. When my first wife passed away, he was one of my rocks to help me through. He was a man of passionate Christian faith. He will be missed here, but enjoyed forever in heaven.
Mike Ebbing
February 15, 2021
Like Jim Murphy, my memories of Steve go way back over 55 years ago on the baseball diamond. In the summer of 1965, Murph and Steve played for Moline Legion while I played for Galesburg Legion. We represented the 2 Illinois teams in the highly regarded Double I League. Burlington and Cedar Rapids were the 2 Iowa teams in what was arguably some of the best Legion ball in the 2-state area. We hosted Moline Legion in the final doubleheader of the 1965 regular season at Knox College. Steve and I were battling for the league batting title. I was a few percentage points ahead of Steve going into the final pair of games. I batted lead-off and had close to twice as many at-bats as Steve, who was in the batting order infrequently when he wasn't pitching. I think I was 3-for-5 in the doubleheader. Steve pitched the first game. In the 2nd game, Steve needed one official at-bat to meet the minimum number of at-bats to qualify for the title. As I recall, Steve got a hit in his first at-bat to make him eligible for the title. Moline Coach Dave Cox pulled Steve from the lineup. When the final season stats came out, Steve had edged me for the batting title. Murph recently told me that everyone thought I had the title locked up. After the 2nd game, Steve and I shook hands and had a nice chat. We both held great respect for each other. I will always remember Steve as a fierce competitor and a great inspiration no matter what sport he was playing. RIP my friend, and many prayers for the family.
Ted Awerkamp
February 10, 2021
To Terri, and to her and Steve´s family. I had the privilege of growing up in a large and loving family, and in a very family driven Catholic high school setting at Quincy Catholic Boys, graduating in 1975. A blessing to have been exposed and guided by some truly wonderful people and educators, on being Steve Spanich. I grew up around Quincy College because of our dad´s involvement in an associated service club, and recall the murmur around this guy when he pitched. Fast forward a few years, he´s our assistant basketball coach. Maybe one of the most intelligent senses of humor I´ve been exposed to ever, but more importantly, a good soul. Having seen what I´d guess a not to old family picture, he got it more than right for many decades. Behold your blessing. I´ll laugh and respect every time I think of you. Thank you and RIP Coach.
Jeff Westrom
February 10, 2021
To the Spanich family,
We mourn for your loss but are joyful for Steve's time here on earth to enrich so many lives. I would often sit next to Steve when our sons were playing basketball together for Isaac Newton Christian Academy. We were both very passionate about the game and on more than one occasion we were given the warning from the referee that if we didn't settle down we would be asked to leave. We never got kicked out but we had fun running right up to the edge. Steve exhibited that kind of passion for his school, for his family, for his friends and for his God. His broad smile and firm hand shake will be missed by many.
Matt Longo
February 10, 2021
Matt Longo
February 10, 2021
Matt Longo
February 10, 2021
Learned a lot from this man. Taught me many things that I use in my professional career as a school teacher/coach for 36 years.
RIP Coach
Marvin & Julie Smith
February 9, 2021
We are heartbroken to hear of Coach Spanich's passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time. I had the pleasure of having Steve as my high school basketball and baseball coach at Quincy Catholic Boys High from 1972-1975. My wife, then girlfriend, Julie and I also were called upon to babysit a few times. Coach Spanich was certainly a mentor to his athletes. He was incredibly dedicated, disciplined, firm, fair, and once you got to know him, one of the funniest individuals I have ever known. As much as we tried to compete with him in basketball and baseball, it became incredibly obvious that his individual athletic abilities far exceeded our own. Rest in Peace Coach, you will be remembered always.
Frank and Karen Sullivan
February 8, 2021
We have many good memories of Steve; most recently when he visited Frank at St. Francis Hospital several years ago and had a powerful prayer over Frank. Our hearts grieve over his leaving his loved ones, friends and ministry at such a young age. We know he is in the presence of the Lord. You and the family are in our prayers. We planned to come to the service on Saturday but Frank had a challenge with his heart. May the Lord envelope you with His comfort and peace. Love, Frank and Karen
Kim Rinella
February 8, 2021
Just heard this sad news. Terry and kids I´m so very sorry for your loss. I still remember babysitting the kids and the conversations after your nights out. God Bless you. You´ll be in my prayers
Tim Meckes
February 7, 2021
So sorry to hear this terrible news. Coach Spanich was my baseball and basketball coach in the mid 70´s at Quincy Notre Dame. A tremendous teacher of the game, always got the most out of his players through discipline, preparation and instilling confidence and teamwork. We were fortunate to have him and his immense personality and talent. I played at every level and he was someone you couldn´t wait to practice and game with. One of the best!Godspeed Coach. My prayers and condolences to the entire Spanich family.
Tim Meckes
Greg Fischer
February 7, 2021
When i first met him he was larger than life itself. It was 1972, I was a sophomore at Catholic Boys High School, playing football and basketball, ... or so I thought. I eventually found out that Mr. Spanich was on a totally different level, ... not only as an athlete but as a human being. Steve became our head JV coach and assistant varsity coach. He was head and shoulders above all as an outstanding athlete, ... one of the likes that i had never had the pleasure of being that close with before. At that time he was cocky, arrogant and, most of all, ... as I found out later, ... compassionate, ... a hidden trait of his at the time. I got to see him in a totally different light than most, for he became a confidant of mine. Especially when he found out that I was getting married, ... the week before I graduated from high school. He reached out to me and gave me good, honest advice, ... and stressed the importance of doing the right thing, ... a lesson he himself had learned,... I looked for him a time or two after high school, ... wanted to let him know how he changed me, ... what he meant to me, ... to show him the family that my wife & I had. Never did make the connection. My loss, ... What I would give to talk to him, to see him go down the lane one more time and own it. He was a man of God and a true force of nature. You taught me the important things coach, ... nothing about sports, ... everything about life. I'll come check you out when I get there. I owe you, ... again, ... RIP Steve Spanich.
Jim Murphy
February 6, 2021
Am shocked with this. I talked with Steve a while back and he was awesome as always. I absolutely understand that stuff happens but Steve was indistructable. Condolences to the Spanich family and please know that he was and is a terrific man, great friend and a heck of a teammate. Love his passion
Laura Phillips
February 6, 2021
Laura Phillips
February 6, 2021
Laura Phillips
February 6, 2021
Laura Phillips
February 6, 2021
Laura Phillips
February 6, 2021
Laura Phillips
February 6, 2021
Laura Phillips
February 6, 2021
Laura Phillips
February 6, 2021
Laura Phillips
February 6, 2021
Laura Phillips
February 6, 2021
Prayers for Steve's family. We empathize as several close family have gone to glory over the past few years.
So very much appreciate the mentorship and prayers that only added to a wonderful lifelong testimo y of God's goodness and grace through Jesus. As your family has grown with marriages and graduations. So has ours. Steve's impact has been profound. He will be missed.
Neal B Gail 2
February 6, 2021
Lost a great man, friend, and confidant. I spent a lot of time with Mr. Spanich, in his office haha. After middle school he was a prayer warrior for me and 1000's of others. I always had an open door with Mr. Spanich, usually because I was sent there. I had tags all over INCA. Last time I saw Mr. Spanich he said if we don't see each other again we will in heaven. What a Man of Prayer. I still remember a prayer he prayed,that's to private to share. He was an amazing man of God! I love you, Mr. Spanich, and will always rememberyou as kind and all the time I spent in your office usually started in trouble and ended laughing after your prayer. Last time I saw you you said " until I see you in heaven and, Mr. Spanich, you are one of the reasons I'll be there!! To Terri and all the kids I'm sorry. There's no replacing his influence on people and especially on your wonderful family. The void is palpable even though it's been 7 years. I bet I laughed more in your office than any other student. I love you, love you all
Rev. Neal B Gail 2
February 6, 2021
I have so many memories of Mr. Spanish. He was my elementary and middle school principal. Even after my early education I could always count on Mr. Spanish to pray and give advice. He was a great man. Always there and I was always in his office. I think I was one of his biggest problems and favorite students. Until we meet in heaven, I love and miss you my leader, confidant, and friend that most people didn't know we were friends even when I was in trouble in your office. I still have tags around INCA!!! I LOVE YOU, SIR, Steve, never could call you anything, but Mr. Spanich. The world lost a great man. Sorry Terri, and all the kids and grandkids. I love you all!!!!
Teresa Jakubowski
February 5, 2021
It's hard to begin with words that Express the precious couple you two where as one. Greeting and praying as a couple that touch my heart in so many way with your Love and kindness and sharing unforgettabe so special memories that made my heart joyful glad. I Thank you Both! Blessings Much Love
Midge Mowery
February 5, 2021
My heart is breaking for you, Terri and your entire wonderful family! Steve was one of a kind and touched so many lives. Such a special Godly man has certainly taken his place in paradise with our Lord! My love and prayers have been with you all since I heard of Steve's untimely passing! .
Michael Estes. Calvary Academy class of 1984
Michael Estes
February 5, 2021
My condolences. Steve will always be Mr. Spanich to me. Stern but fair principal at Calvary Academy when I graduated in 1984. I wish you the best in these trying times. Celebrate his life!
Taylor, Matt, Shaun, Nick and Todd from Entellus
February 4, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Dick Webster
February 4, 2021
I am very saddened to hear of the loss of Mr. Spanich. I am forever great full for Steve and Terri´s prayers of encouragement and support in my life, also for their prayers of support for my military grandson. I pray God´s comfort and peace to cover Terri and the family. "This is my comfort in my affliction, for your Word has given me life." Ps. 119:50.
Shelley Lane Fenimore
February 3, 2021
Very sorry to hear about Mr. Spanich. He was always so kind to Whitney, Rick, II and Cameron. He was the one that truly noticed Whitney´s voice while she was at VCS and asked her to sing the Star Spangled Banner at several basketball games. Fenimore Family will never forget Mr. Spanich. May God give you peace, comfort and strength during this time. Love to each of you.
Edwin and Diane Hung
February 3, 2021
Blessings to all. We so enjoyed Stephens leadership at Isaac Newton.
Ralstons
February 3, 2021
Sorry to hear the loss of such a wonderful man of God. He always greated our family with a huge smile and kind encouraging words. Our children loved pastor Steve.
Tom Morris
February 2, 2021
This man of God and his family hold a special place in my life here and I am grateful for the time Steve shared with me. Pray peace and comfort for Terri and their children and grandchildren.
GL and Sharon Matthews
February 2, 2021
Terri, you and Steve brought many blessings to our leadership team at Calvary. It seem like yesterday when I drove to Quincy and discuss your joining us. You and your entire family were such a great addition. May God comfort you and his peace be with you during this storm.
Eddie and Bonita Harper
February 2, 2021
To the Spinach family, we are truly saddened by the death of such a lively and robust godly man. Steve always was bringing the good news of the Gospel to everyone around him. He will be missed and it is so sad to see his untimely death. There were not many men like him in our presence, so we will retain fond memories of his warm and friendly smile.
Andy Smith
February 2, 2021
I am so sorry to hear this. My heart and prayers are for your family. We lost Denise two years ago and I know how difficult this is. We have always loved your family.
Lawrence Hill's family and siblings
February 2, 2021
Sending my condolences and prayers to Mr.Spinach's family and love ones. Certainly, Mr. Spinach has impacted my life under his guidance when I was a student-athlete at Calvary Academy. I will never forget his smiles, encouraging words and positive energy.
Bonnie Yount
February 2, 2021
Steve was the first administrator I worked under after college. When I went into the office at Isaac Newton Christian Academy, he immediately came up to me, shook my hand, and said " God bless you!". I felt so welcomed! I only had one year with him before he moved to Tulsa, but I am so grateful for that year! What a blessing to start my teaching career!
Jim and Bonnie Drew
February 1, 2021
Terri and family. We are so very saddened to hear of Steve's passing. He was such a wonderful husband, father, teacher, mentor, man of God and all around good person. We both truly enjoyed working with him and knowing all your family in Springfield. May God touch you with His hand of peace, comfort and love knowing Steve is in Heaven with his Maker. With deepest sympathy, Jim and bonnie
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